Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) presents a three-day festival celebrating the enduring legacy of the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, titled ‘Ustad Zakir Hussain: The Way Forward’. Taking place from 27–29 March 2026 at Sunder Nursery, the festival brings together performances, film screenings, conversations, and an exhibition of photographs to reflect on the life, music, and continuing influence of the iconic percussionist.
More than a tribute, The Way Forward explores how Zakir Hussain’s pioneering approach to rhythm continues to inspire generations of musicians worldwide. Each evening of the festival will feature performances curated by three of his close collaborators—Yogesh Samsi, Ranjit Barot, and Anantha R. Krishnan—bringing together master percussionists and emerging performers in a collective celebration of rhythm.
The programme also includes a special presentation of Saaz by Chitrahaar Live, led by Pavithra Chari, highlighting Zakir Hussain’s contribution to songs from the golden era of Indian cinema. Complementing the musical performances are film screenings and conversations that illuminate different facets of the maestro’s life and work, including films by his daughter, Anisa Qureshi; a screening of The Speaking Hand by filmmaker Sumantra Ghosal; and a talk titled Stories of Zakir by Mujeeb Dadarkar.
Anchoring the festival visually is an exhibition of image works by acclaimed photographer Dayanita Singh, whose long-standing association with Zakir Hussain has produced an intimate archive of photographs capturing the musician on stage, behind the scenes, and in moments of quiet reflection. Singh will also present a talk titled Travelling with Zakir Hussain, reflecting on their decades-long artistic friendship.
Conceptualised by MT Aditya Srinivasan, who worked closely with Zakir Hussain as a recording and live sound engineer, the festival brings together music, film, photography, and conversation to honour a legacy that transformed the language of percussion and reshaped global perceptions of Indian music.
Feature Image: Zakir Hussain by Dayanita Singh (Credit: Dayanita Singh)
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